Hau Edward Petrovich – Types of rooms of the Winter Palace. The first half of the spare. Yellow Grand Salon. book. Maria Nikolaevna Hermitage ~ part 03

The drawing presents a meticulously rendered interior space, dominated by a pervasive ochre hue that saturates both walls and ceiling. Here we see a grand salon, clearly intended for formal gatherings or displays of wealth and status. The perspective is centered, offering a comprehensive view of the rooms layout and decorative elements.
The architectural details are striking. A complex coffered ceiling, embellished with gilded accents, draws the eye upwards, emphasizing the height and opulence of the space. A large, ornate chandelier hangs centrally, its light presumably intended to illuminate the room’s contents. The walls are adorned with framed paintings – one depicting a military scene, another seemingly a portrait – suggesting an emphasis on historical narratives or familial lineage.
Furniture is arranged in groupings that suggest both formality and potential for conversation. Elaborate chairs with gilded frames and plush upholstery flank the perimeter of the room, while a central rug anchors the space and defines a gathering area. A large vase sits prominently near one wall, adding to the sense of grandeur. The open doorway reveals glimpses of other rooms beyond, hinting at the scale and complexity of the larger structure.
The artist’s attention to detail is remarkable; the textures of the fabrics, the reflections on the polished surfaces, and the subtle gradations of light are all rendered with considerable skill. This level of precision suggests a desire not merely to depict the room but also to document it – perhaps as part of an architectural survey or inventory.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a sense of controlled order and rigid formality. The symmetry of the composition, the repetition of decorative motifs, and the carefully arranged furniture all contribute to this impression. The absence of human figures reinforces the feeling that this is a space designed for display rather than intimate interaction. It speaks to an era where appearances and protocol held significant weight, and where interiors served as powerful symbols of social standing and cultural refinement. The overall effect is one of restrained luxury and deliberate presentation.